What to do if a smartphone catches fire: A step-by-step guide

Modern smartphones are equipped with powerful lithium-ion batteries that are generally reliable. However, due to manufacturing defects, wear, or external damage, they can sometimes overheat and even catch fire. Such incidents are rare, but knowing how to act correctly is important — it can help prevent injuries and serious damage.

Why Smartphones Catch Fire

The main cause is battery failure. Over time, chemical processes inside the battery can break down: gases are released, the battery swells, the casing deforms, which can lead to a short circuit and an uncontrolled thermal reaction.

Risk factors include:

• manufacturing defects (the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 is a well-known example);
  • mechanical damage from drops;
  • water ingress;
  • sharp temperature changes;
  • frequent overheating, especially during charging;
  • use of non-original or faulty chargers and cables.

First Actions: Cut Power and Isolate

If the smartphone starts smoking, crackling, or hissing:

• Immediately unplug the charger from the power outlet. If that is not possible, cut power to the entire apartment via the circuit breaker.
  • Isolate the device from flammable materials. Ideally, take it outside and place it on asphalt, concrete, or bare ground, away from people and animals. Do not throw it out of a window and do not carry it across the entire apartment if the distance is long.
  • If taking it outside is impossible, place it on a non-flammable surface (tiles, metal, concrete) at a safe distance from furniture, curtains, and gas appliances.

How to Extinguish a Burning Smartphone

The best option is a fire extinguisher (any type except water-based ones intended specifically for live electrical equipment).

If no fire extinguisher is available:

• Generously cover the device with baking soda or soil from a flower pot.
  • Cover it with a thick cloth (not synthetic) to suppress the flames and limit oxygen access.
  • Use a metal pot or lid to cover the smartphone, allowing the fire to burn out in an enclosed space.

Can You Use Water?

Lithium-ion batteries contain only a minimal amount of pure lithium, so there will be no violent reaction with hydrogen release as with metallic lithium. Water can be used, but it is not the best option.

If there are no alternatives:

• Place the smartphone in a sink or bathtub.
  • Use cold water — it cools the battery faster.
  • Pour steadily and continuously rather than all at once.
  • Even after the flames disappear, pour water a few more times to prevent re-ignition.

Safety Precautions

• Do not inhale the smoke — it contains toxic substances. Cover your nose and mouth with a cloth or hold your breath.
  • If the fire spreads or you cannot control it, evacuate immediately and call the fire service (101 or 112). The smartphone is not worth risking your health.
  • If the phone catches fire in a pocket or bag, do not try to pull it out with your hands to avoid burns. It is better to quickly shake it onto the floor.

How to Prevent a Fire

• At the first signs of battery swelling (case or screen deformation), stop using the device and contact a service center for replacement.
  • Use only original or certified chargers and cables.
  • Avoid overheating, sharp temperature changes, and strong impacts.
  • Never attempt to open or repair a battery yourself.

In Brief

If a smartphone catches fire, first cut the power, then isolate it on a non-flammable surface. Extinguish it with a fire extinguisher, baking soda, soil, or a thick cloth; use water only as a last resort and only cold water. Do not inhale smoke, and if there is danger, call the fire service. Prevention is easier and cheaper: monitor battery condition, use quality chargers, and protect the device from damage. This reduces the risk to a minimum.